Turkey sits where Europe meets Asia, blending ancient history, coastal beauty, and vibrant city life. You will find atmospheric old towns, dramatic landscapes, and living traditions side by side.
Discover Turkey
Discover Turkey
Why visit Turkey?
What to expect
From the grand mosques and bazaars of Istanbul to ancient ruins, fairy-tale rock valleys, and Aegean beaches, Turkey offers a mix of culture, heritage, and relaxed seaside escapes across its many regions.
Plan your trip
Base yourself in Istanbul to explore its neighbourhoods and historic sights, then connect onwards to coastal resorts or inland highlights. Turkey is also a convenient gateway between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Top experiences in Turkey
Explore Istanbul’s historic peninsula
Wander between grand landmarks, atmospheric lanes, and waterfront promenades where centuries of empires have left their mark.
Cruise along the Bosphorus
Sail between continents as you pass palaces, wooden mansions, and lively neighbourhoods lining the strait.
Discover ancient ruins
Visit archaeological sites across the country, where theatres, temples, and city walls reveal Turkey’s layered past.
Unwind on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts
Swim in clear waters, relax on beaches, and enjoy harbour towns framed by pine-covered hills and bays.
Experience Turkey’s thermal and spa towns
Soak in mineral-rich waters and traditional bathhouses in regions known for their natural springs.
Stroll lively bazaars and neighbourhood streets
Browse stalls filled with textiles, spices, and handicrafts, then pause at cafés tucked into side alleys and courtyards.
Admire Turkey’s mosques and monuments
Step into majestic domed interiors and courtyards that showcase intricate stonework and tile art.
Take in panoramic city views
Climb to viewpoints and rooftop terraces around Istanbul to see skylines, waterways, and bridges from above.
Experience Turkey’s way of life
Getting around
Major cities in Turkey are linked by frequent domestic flights, intercity buses, and an expanding rail network. Within cities, you can rely on metro lines, trams, ferries, and taxis to move easily between districts.
Local life & culture
Daily life blends café culture, neighbourhood markets, and a strong sense of hospitality, with each region expressing its own character. Historic quarters sit alongside modern districts, where art, music, and design scenes are growing fast.
Where to unwind
Relax in coastal towns, leafy parks, and seafront promenades that invite slow walks and sunset views. Across Turkey, you will find spa hotels, traditional bathhouses, and quiet countryside retreats where you can pause between days of sightseeing.
A taste of Turkey
National dishes & specialties
You can sample an array of grilled meats, slow-cooked stews, hearty baked dishes, and rich desserts, often shaped by Ottoman heritage and regional produce from the coast and interior.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Istanbul and other major cities, relaxed eateries, café streets, and contemporary restaurants serve everything from traditional home-style fare to modern interpretations and global flavours.
Signature & scenic dining
Pair your meal with Bosphorus views, hilltop panoramas, or elegant historic settings, where carefully prepared menus are matched with memorable city or sea outlooks.
Retail therapy in Turkey
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Istanbul, large shopping centres combine international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining, offering a comfortable, all-weather place to browse and spend time.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional bazaars and neighbourhood markets across Istanbul and other cities showcase textiles, ceramics, leather goods, and decorative items crafted by local artisans.
Evening retail scene
After dark, busy shopping streets, illuminated storefronts, and late-opening malls create a lively atmosphere, especially in central districts and along waterfront promenades.
Best time to visit Turkey
Peak season: June to August, when much of Turkey is warm to hot, averaging around 25–30°C (77–86°F) along the coasts and in major cities, with long sunny days ideal for beach stays and evening strolls. Shoulder season: April to May and September to October, bringing milder weather of about 15–25°C (59–77°F), comfortable for city walks, sightseeing, and exploring inland regions without the height of summer crowds. Low season: November to March, when coastal areas are cooler and wetter at roughly 8–15°C (46–59°F), while some inland and eastern regions can fall below 5°C (41°F), suiting travellers who prefer quieter cities and do not mind colder conditions.